Justice for Indy

Burbank And Surrounding Area Residents Among Hundreds Leading The Pack In Year-Long Fight For Justice For Southern California Pitbull Intentionally And Severly Burned By Fireworks

After numerous continuances, a preliminary hearing has been set for Wednesday September 24, 2014, in the case against Carlos Duarte, the man suspected of strapping a young pit bull with fireworks, set ablaze, on July 4, 2013 and leaving the severely burned dog for dead in an alley in Van Nuys, CA the following morning.

And as the year-long quest to seek “Justice For Indy” continues, so does the need for people to take action in the fight against animal cruelty, whether it be by writing letters to legislators or by joining the hundreds of people from all over the Southland who will once again gather at the Van Nuys West Courthouse, located at 14400 Erwin Street Mall, on the morning of September 24 beginning at 8:00am.

“Indy’s story is one of many tragic cases of animal cruelty and abuse that has been dominating the news of late…Imagine how many cases aren’t reported,” said Roger Allen Ward of Pasadena. “Fortunately Indy survived where sadly many don’t. We must continue to advocate for animal rights, stricter legislation and increased awareness. Animal abuse is unacceptable under any circumstances and violators should have significant consequences. We must be the voice that inspires change.”

“Whether these crimes are committed against a human being or an animal – they are inexcusable,” added Katrina Nelson of Studio City. “At the very least, the laws in this regard are inadequate and at a minimum, if this man is found guilty, he deserves the maximum penalty that is legally allowed at this time. And maybe one day, the maximum penalty will actually be deserving of such horrible acts of cruelty.”

“I attend Indy’s hearings because I feel strongly that the LA County justice system needs to fully prosecute animal abuse cases. I want my voice heard. If we don’t speak for the animals being abused at the hands of humans who will?” shared Nicole Goodfellow of Burbank. “We cannot allow the abusers to walk away with a slap on the wrist. They must be held accountable and deal with the consequences of their actions.”

The outpouring of support is not limited to those in California. People from all over the world are fighting for Justice For Indy.

“Indy’s story has touched the hearts of many, even overseas,” said Laura Jones, an animal advocate based in London, UK who is heavily involved in the Justice For Indy campaign. “I wish I could have shown support for Indy by being at his hearings in person, however, I was able to send letters to the DA and Judge for Indy’s case and I would encourage others to so the same and be the voice of animals like Indy who have suffered senseless abuse”.

Indy, who was brought to Shelter Transport Animal Rescue Team (S.T.A.R.T.) and then transferred to Westlake Village Animal Hospital, was in dire condition with life-threatening burns over the majority of his body. Numerous surgeries, including some performed by renowned burn surgeon Dr. Richard Grossman, and months of painful recovery and therapy later, Indy is slowly healing in his “fur-ever” home his new mom, Jenny Mandel, a vet tech from the clinic where he was treated.

But the fight for Justice continues…
Join The “Justice For Indy” Supporters From All Over The Southland
As They Gather Once Again At Van Nuys Courthouse
Wednesday September 24, 2014 At 8:00am

In addition to attending the September 24 peaceful demonstration, people are encouraged to send letters and emails to the Judge and DA in Indy’s case.